What's Happening?
The documentary 'The Disciple,' directed by Joanna Natasegara, premiered at Sundance, focusing on Dutch Moroccan rapper-producer Tarik Azzougarh, known as Cilvaringz, and his involvement with the Wu-Tang
Clan. The film details Cilvaringz's journey to the U.S. and his integration into the Wu-Tang Clan, particularly under the guidance of the RZA. The documentary highlights the creation and sale of the 'Once Upon a Time in Shaolin' album, which was sold as a single copy for $2 million to Martin Shkreli. The film provides an insider's view of the album's conceptualization and the controversies surrounding its sale.
Why It's Important?
The documentary sheds light on the intersection of art, commerce, and exclusivity in the music industry. The sale of 'Once Upon a Time in Shaolin' as a single-copy album challenges traditional music distribution models and raises questions about the value of art. The involvement of Martin Shkreli, a controversial figure, adds a layer of intrigue and highlights issues of ownership and access in the digital age. The film also underscores the global influence of hip-hop culture and the Wu-Tang Clan's impact on music and society.
